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North Central Michigan College (NCMC) in Petoskey has recently been granted a significant $6 million by the state of Michigan, which is set to fund two critical educational programs designed to enhance the college's capabilities in preparing students for high-demand jobs in the region. The allocation comes from Michigan's fiscal year 2027 budget, signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on July 21.
"This substantial investment will go a long way in bolstering our commitment to vocational training and healthcare education," NCMC President David Roland Finley said. The funding will primarily support construction and operational costs for programs focused on skilled trades and dental hygiene.
The $6 million encompasses approximately $3.47 million designated for the establishment of NCMC's Skilled Trades Education Pathways Center, along with an additional $2.5 million for acquiring and renovating a dental hygiene clinic.
The proposed STEP Center is a significant addition to the college's existing Martin Jahn Technology Center, which is set to open on August 31. This expansion is designed to expand hands-on training in a range of construction trades such as carpentry, plumbing, welding, and HVAC. Moreover, it aims to enhance training in manufacturing and engineering technology through student activities and support services.
Finley explained that the construction of the Martin Jahn Technology Center is part of a broader $22 million Career and Technical Education Enhancement project aimed at bolstering local workforce training in health care, technology, and skilled trades. The project is anticipated to increase the college's annual capacity in high-demand fields by around 350 students.
Although the state's Department of Technology, Management and Budget has yet to finalize its approval of the STEP Center, Finley expressed confidence that the project will be a priority given the state's interest in seeing these projects completed promptly.
NCMC has long been recognized for its transfer education programs that support students seeking a four-year degree at another institution, as well as its nursing program. However, Finley emphasized that the college is now broadening its horizons to accommodate more diverse career development opportunities.
The dental hygiene program is set to commence in Fall 2028 with an initial enrollment of around 15 students. It will be a comprehensive three-to-three and a half-year curriculum that the college hopes will grow, meeting the state's projected demand for 200 additional dental hygienists over the coming years. This initiative is particularly significant for the state, given the current shortage of dental hygienists and the challenges this shortage poses for scheduling appointments.
Finley pointed out that graduates of the program could start earning a competitive salary of up to $80,000 annually and have the opportunity for a balanced work/life ratio.
The proposed STEP Center is designed to include up to six different laboratories, with construction anticipated to be completed by 2030 at the latest. The college is currently fundraising to complement the state award to fully finance the STEP Center.
NCMC has been making strategic investments in workforce training and education over recent years, including workforce training programs, lifelong learning workshops, and traditional degree programs. With a traditional enrollment of nearly 1,800 students and an additional 400-500 in non-credit programs, the college is dedicated to meeting the needs of both current and future learners in northern Michigan.
The recent funding and planned initiatives underscore NCMC's dedication to preparing a well-equipped workforce and ensuring that area residents have the opportunity to pursue successful and rewarding careers in both skilled trades and healthcare.
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